Chardonnay 'Alpine Vineyard'

Score

96

"So floral, aromatic and buttery at first, then fine layers of crisp fruit and suave spices fill the medium body. Lime zest, kiwi, mineral and Anjou pear flavors are held rather firmly by vivid acidity for a feeling of great concentration and intensity. Drink now or hold."

Score

96

"Sinewy and soft, with bright citrus highlights and a seamless texture, the 2022 Chardonnay Alpine Vineyard is a remarkably beautiful and delicious white from this mountainous appellation, sitting 10 miles from the Pacific in shallow, rocky soils that are deeply sloped. It is graceful and elegant in light layers of pear, peach, and apple that serve as counterpoint and complement to its fresh, energetic nature. Hints of spice dance around the mid-palate and take on further steam toward the finish, adding complexity and a savory undercurrent that's truly compelling. The structure of the wine suggests further life in the cellar; enjoy now through 2032."

Score

96

"As is typical with this site in both Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, the 2022 Chardonnay Alpine Vineyard opens on a shy note before ceaselessly escalating in dimension and complexity. The nose combines the site's signature bright, lifted fragrance with intense but ethereal orchard fruit aromas and ever-increasing chalky, saline flourishes. The palate is plush yet pliable, with great dexterity and balance that transitions to a taut yet layered finish of focused, structured acidity and delicious, bright, clean citrus tinges. It is a beautiful showing that combines electric energy with alluring nuance."

Score

95

"The 2022 Chardonnay Alpine Vineyard is quite a bit more closed than the Horseshoe Chardonnay, as it always is. Spice, chamomile, dried pear, lemon peel and graphite nuances open with some coaxing. The 2022 possesses superb persistence and a long, clean finish that is hard to capture fully with words. It's a wine of subtlety more than anything else. - Antonio Galloni"